Which term refers to law arising from court decisions rather than legislative statutes?

The term that refers to law arising from court decisions rather than legislative statutes is commonly known as common law. This legal system is developed through the judgments and precedents set by courts over time, emphasizing the role of judicial decisions in shaping the law. Common law evolves as higher courts interpret statutory law and apply it to various cases, creating a body of law that is based on these precedents.

Common law contrasts with statutory law, which is created through formal legislative processes. It is important to understand that while statutory law relies on written statutes enacted by legislative bodies, common law reflects the practical application of these laws in specific court cases.

Civil law, on the other hand, refers to a legal system based on comprehensive statutes and codes, often seen in countries influenced by European legal traditions. Administrative law pertains to regulations created by government agencies, overseeing the actions of these entities in relation to the public.

Recognizing these distinctions highlights the importance of common law in legal systems that rely on court interpretations to govern and address new legal challenges as they arise.